DE SJR1

Directs Delaware's Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF) to explore participating in the federal Title IV-E Guardianship Assistance Program (GAP), which provides funding to help relatives who become legal guardians of children they previously fostered

Delaware is one of only 10 states not participating in GAP; as of June 2021, 40 states, DC, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and 10 Native American Tribes participate in the program

In fiscal year 2020, Delaware had 902 children who spent at least one day in foster care, with 21% of youth exiting care being placed with guardians

A September 2019 stakeholder meeting identified kinship support as a primary gap in Delaware's child welfare service continuum

Requires DSCYF to submit a final report by March 1, 2024, containing analysis findings, recommendations, and a proposed implementation plan if GAP participation is recommended